Boutique favourite Moovin returns to Whitebottom Farm with Groove Armada, 2manydjs, Gilles Peterson and more locked in for a heavyweight June celebration.
The much-loved Moovin Festival is back for 2026 and phase one already looks seriously stacked. Returning to the stunning surrounds of Whitebottom Farm from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 June, the independent boutique weekender once again proves that you do not need arena-sized fields to create arena-sized moments.
Tucked away in the greenery of Etherow Country Park, just 30 minutes from Manchester, Moovin has built a reputation for its intimate atmosphere, proper sound systems and one of the friendliest crowds on the circuit. No VIP barriers, no corporate gloss, just a tree-lined valley, a converted barn and a dancefloor-first ethos that keeps people coming back year after year.
Groove Armada and 2manydjs Unite
Heading up phase one are two former Moovin headliners who now share the same bill for the first time. Groove Armadaand 2manydjs will both perform DJ sets inside the iconic Barn Stage, which for 2026 takes on a new DJ-led format and refreshed look. Promoters promise to transform the converted cow shed into the ultimate rave den, complete with heavyweight production and that unmistakable Moovin energy.
Groove Armada summed it up perfectly: a hay barn at the bottom of a valley, a fat sound system, a freewheeling crowd and nothing but good vibes. It is that 90s free-party spirit, alive and well in Stockport.
Selectors, Soul and Serious Depth
The eclecticism runs deep across the rest of the bill. Gilles Peterson, Nightmares On Wax and Quantic bring colour, global rhythm and soul-drenched selections.
For the heads, the booking of Danilo Plessow is a major moment. Better known to many as Motor City Drum Ensemble, he remains a selector’s selector, revered for his deep, beautifully curated house journeys. Add to that tastemaker Luke Una, festival favourite Mr Scruff and disco pioneer Greg Wilson celebrating 50 years behind the decks, and you have serious heritage on display. Dan Shake completes a dream run for anyone who likes their dance music with character and craft.
Haçienda Spirit and Northern Roots
Moovin’s Manchester credentials shine bright in 2026 with a rare set from original The Haçienda residents Mike Pickering and Graeme Park. They are joined by DJ Paulette, Mark XTC, K-Klass and Justin Robertson, reinforcing the festival’s deep northern club culture roots.
DJ Paulette describes Moovin as a highlight of her calendar, a place where the waterfall view signals home and the crowd energy is electric.
Live Firepower Across the Weekend
Live highlights arrive thick and fast. Chali 2na of Jurassic 5 performs with a brand new full live band, while acid jazz pioneers Galliano bring their fusion of jazz, funk and soul. DRS presents his Live Band project, and psychedelic prog legends Ozric Tentacles add their unmistakable energy.
Sound system pressure comes courtesy of Mungo’s Hi Fi, while Manchester’s rising stars Porij and South Africa’s electrifying Moonchild Sanelly make their Moovin debut.
Jungle, Party Starters and Hip-Hop Heat
Drum and bass and jungle are well represented with Micky Finn, Nicky Blackmarket, Brockie and Dr Meaker leading the first wave. Party energy is locked in thanks to Freestylers, Jaguar Skills, Plump DJs, X-Press 2, Utah Saints and Soul Of Man. Hip-hop flavour comes via A.Skillz and DMC champion DJ Woody.
More Than Just a Line-Up
Beyond the names, Moovin’s magic lies in discovery. Five stages, straw bale seating, lakes, tree canopies and a dramatic gorge entrance all add to the immersive feel. Holistic healing, yoga and circus performers sit alongside cutting-edge sound systems and that intentionally limited capacity that keeps the vibe intimate and inclusive.
This is only phase one, with plenty more still to come. If previous years are anything to go by, tickets will not hang around for long.
For full details and tickets, head to the official Moovin Festival website and get 12 to 14 June 2026 locked in your diary.
